Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) is calling for applications from eligible Paralympians and Para athletes for the PNZ Athletes’ Council. Applications close on Friday 18 October 2024, 5pm NZT.
The purpose of the Athletes’ Council is to represent New Zealand Paralympians and Para athletes while empowering athlete participation and voice within New Zealand and the Paralympic Movement internationally.
The PNZ Athletes’ Council is a consultative committee established by Paralympics New Zealand (PNZ) in 2021 to act as the athletes’ voice within PNZ, providing governance and management advice on matters impacting on Paralympians and Para athletes.
The current Council consists of six members of which three will be standing down. Therefore, three positions will be available and up for election this year.
The three newly elected and three current Council members will represent the Paralympian and Para athlete community and support the work of PNZ on Paralympic Games operations, performance, and policy. They will also connect with other athletes’ councils nationally and globally to discuss issues relating to active Paralympians and Para athletes within the Paralympic Movement. Sarah
Greg Warnecke (PNZ Chief Executive Officer) explains:
“The PNZ Athletes’ Council has provided a valuable athlete voice across various element of PNZ delivery and influenced decision making across the sporting sector since its’ inception in 2021. This is an exciting opportunity for Paralympians and Para athletes and we look forward to continuing to ensure the Paralympian and Para athlete voice is at the heart of Paralympics New Zealand.”
PNZ Athletes’ Council Chair and Paralympian #213 Sarah Ellington explains:
“We have seen that by consulting with Paralympians and Para athletes via the PNZ Athletes’ Council considerable value can be added to so many areas of Para sport and the wider sporting sector. The Council provides a clear pathway for dialogue, and it shows how much value PNZ continues to place on the experience and learnings from an athlete’s perspective.”
The three newly elected Council members will be confirmed and appointed in November 2024. Eligibility is based on having represented New Zealand within the past twelve years – those interested can read full details and the position description here on this link.
If you wish to submit your application please complete this form by Friday 18 October 2024, 5pm NZT.
What about the PNZ Board Athlete Representative Initiative?
The PNZ Athletes’ Council is currently working with PNZ on formalising a dedicated Athlete Representative role on the PNZ Board.
To ensure transparency, we bring this to your attention as one of the preferred options is for a member of the PNZ Athletes’ Council to be appointed to this position.
At this time no final decision has been made regarding how this representative will be appointed to the PNZ Board. This will not be formalised until the PNZ AGM in April 2025
Depending on the final decision, the current purpose of the PNZ Athletes’ Council may be updated to recognise any change in what we do.
